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Tumacacori Celebrates Kino’s Legacy with Church, Cattle, and Crops

Father Eusebio Francisco Kino arrived at the village of Tumacácori in January of 1691 at the invitation of its native villagers. The famed missionary and explorer brought for the first time many aspects of European culture including the Old World's horses, cattle, and other livestock together with its field crops and fruit trees. What Kino left behind is a legacy that can be seen, heard, and tasted to this day.

On Sunday, January 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Tumacácori will celebrate the 325th anniversary of Kino's arrival with a day of activities for families, neighbors, and visitors from across the world. "Kino plays a central role in the park story," says Superintendent Bob Love, "We know that everyone will find some part of Kino's legacy that touches their lives today."

The celebration begins at 10:00 a.m.with Mass commemorated by Bishop Gerald Kicanas in front of the park's historic mission church. At 11:30 a.m., a demonstration of heritage Spanish Barb horses will take place on the adjacent grounds. At 1:00 p.m., Mark O'Hare of the Kino Heritage Society will present "Kino's Querencia: San Cayetano de Tumacácori" inside the mission church. Throughout the day until 2:00 p.m., visitors may enjoy a variety of family activities and presentations for every interest. Visit "Kino's Petting Zoo," learn to card and spin wool and rope a calf, taste heritage foods, and make your own scientific instruments like the ones Kino used. Many local organizations will participate in the anniversary event. All activities and entrance to the park will be free.

For more information about this and other celebrations at Tumacácori during the centennial year of the National Park Service, visit www.nps.gov/tuma or call 520-377-5060.